A 60-year-old man from Missouri was found dead near his campsite in Newton County, Arkansas, on Thursday, October 2, 2025, in what authorities believe was a fatal black bear attack—the second such incident in the state in less than a month. The discovery has prompted a multi-agency investigation and heightened safety warnings for campers and hunters in the Ozark National Forest.Newton County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a welfare check at Sam’s Throne Campground near Mt. Judea around midday after the man failed to check out as scheduled. Upon arrival, they encountered a disturbed site with signs of a struggle, including overturned gear, blood, and drag marks leading into the woods. The victim was located deceased a short distance away, suffering severe injuries consistent with a large carnivore mauling, according to Sheriff Glenn Wheeler.Photos sent by the man to family members on Tuesday showed a young male black bear lingering near his tent, raising early suspicions. An autopsy is pending to confirm the cause of death, but preliminary evidence points to the bear as the culprit. The campground has been closed indefinitely for public safety and to facilitate the search, which involves the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC), U.S. Forest Service, and local hunters tracking the animal. Traps may be deployed if the bear is located.”This is a tragic reminder that wildlife encounters can turn deadly, even in familiar areas,” Wheeler said in a statement. “We’re working closely with experts to ensure the public is protected while respecting the natural habitat.”A Rare but Rising Threat in the OzarksBlack bear populations in Arkansas have rebounded dramatically since the 1990s, with an estimated 5,000 statewide, concentrated in the Ozarks and Ouachita Mountains. While attacks remain exceedingly rare—fewer than 10 documented since 1997—this marks the second fatal incident in 2025, following a September mauling in Franklin County that left a 72-year-old man critically injured.AGFC officials attribute the uptick to habitat expansion and human encroachment, urging precautions: Store food in airtight containers or vehicles, avoid leaving scented items outside, and carry bear spray or firearms in bear country. “Bears are opportunistic and curious—don’t give them a reason to approach,” advised AGFC Bear Biologist Myron Means.The victim’s identity has not been released pending family notification, but he was described as an avid camper visiting the popular Sam’s Throne site, known for its scenic overlooks and hiking trails.As fall hunting and camping seasons peak, authorities are ramping up awareness campaigns. Wheeler echoed the call: “Be safe, keep a clean campground, and don’t camp in a tent right now if possible.”The investigation continues, with updates expected as the autopsy results come in. Residents and visitors are encouraged to report bear sightings to AGFC at 800-364-4263.
Fatal Bear Attack in North Arkansas: Missouri Man Killed at Sam’s Throne Campground
